G59 Embedded Generator Regulations

G59 is the regulation surrounding the connection of any form of generator device to run ‘in
parallel’ or ‘synchronised’ with the mains electrical utility grid (National Grid).  The regulation
has its roots in Ofgem rules, and is administered as the Energy Networks Association
Engineering Recommendation G59/2-1 “Recommendations for the connection of generating
plant to the Distribution System of Licensed Distribution Network Operators – Amendment 1”.

This is relevant for all power generation, including combined heat and power units as well as
generators being used for peak-lopping, or grid parallel use, greater than 16A per phase.  For
anything below this the Engineering recommendation G83/1-1 applies.
 
Why is G59 Protection Needed?
The main reason for the G59 recommendations is to regulate generator applications, so that no
generators are connected to the grid without the specific knowledge and permission of the local
electricity authority.  The principle reason for this is to prevent the embedded generator from
sending electricity out onto the National Grid in a dangerous manner:-

For example, let’s say that a cable out in the street has been broken. Along comes the electricity
network operator to repair it.  They go to the nearest substation and isolate the cable to make it
safe to work on.  However, in a nearby building is an embedded generator, which suddenly starts
up and begins feeding electricity down the other end of the broken cable, making it live.  The
repair crew would have no knowledge of this, and so would be placed in a potentially fatal
situation.

The G59 relay protective device prevents this situation by automatically disconnecting the
embedded generator from the mains.

There are a number of other aspects that will be considered by the DNO (District Network
Authority) when asked to approve the connection of a power generation source to the National
Grid.  These include:-

 Voltage Rise & Step

 Interface Protection Capability
 Harmonics, Distortion & Unbalance
 Fault Level Contribution
 Reverse Power Flow
 Clustering of Installations – overloading one area and leaving others untouched.
 Planning Consent & Land Rights
 Existing Network Suitability
What does the G59 Device Actually Do?
A G59 compliant Mains Protection Relay is an electronic monitoring device which looks at the
quality and stability of the mains electricity.  It is programmed to certain fixed parameters
dictated by the DNO, these typically include voltage, frequency, ROCOF (rate of change), phase
angle and so on.  Should any of these areas go outside the programmed limits, then the relay will
cause a protective device such as an MCCB or other type of circuit breaker to open, thereby
instantly disconnecting the generator from the grid for protection and peace of mind.

Find out about how shentongroup include G59 Commissioning within our service offering
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